All botanical gardens to visit in Kentucky

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at 7 botanical gardens in Kentucky. Discover diverse plant species, themed gardens, and conservation efforts.

Do you love plants and nature? Here are the must-visit botanical gardens in Kentucky:

  1. Louisville Zoo1

    Louisville Zoo

     Louisville, KY
    The Louisville Zoological Garden, often simply referred to as the Louisville Zoo, is a state zoo located in the city of Louisville, Kentucky. It was opened in 1969 and is operated as a non-profit organization. The zoo is dedicated to improving the bond between people and our planet, striving for a leadership role in nature conservation education.
  2. Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest2

    Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest

     Clermont, KY
    The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a vast 57 km² nature reserve located in Clermont, Kentucky. It serves as an arboretum, forest, and nature reserve, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna for visitors to explore. The reserve is part of the International Agenda for Botanic Gardens in Conservation, reflecting its commitment to preserving and studying plant life.
  3. Arboretum - University of Kentucky3

    Arboretum - University of Kentucky

     Lexington, KY
    The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, also known as University of Kentucky Arboretum or Lexington Arboretum, is a 100-acre botanical garden located at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky, United States. It is a public garden that is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year, offering a wide variety of plant species and landscapes for visitors to explore.
  4. John James Audubon State Park4

    John James Audubon State Park

     Henderson, KY
    John James Audubon State Park is conveniently located on U. S. Route 41 in Henderson, Kentucky, just south of the Ohio River. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling through the region.
  5. Western Kentucky Botanical Garden5

    Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

     Owensboro, KY
    The Western Kentucky Botanical Garden (WKBG) is a botanical garden located in Owensboro, Kentucky. It is a place where visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden is a great destination for those who love plants, flowers, and outdoor activities.
  6. The Arboretum - State Botanical Garden of Kentucky6

    The Arboretum - State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

     Lexington, KY
    The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center Botanical Garden, also known as UK REC Botanical Garden, is a significant botanical garden and research center. It spans an impressive 520 hectares (1300 acres) and is managed by the University of Kentucky, located in Princeton. This vast expanse of land is dedicated to the study and improvement of various crops and ornamental plants.
  7. Boone County Arboretum7

    Boone County Arboretum

     Union, KY
    The Boone County Arboretum, located at 9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, Kentucky, is a 121-acre arboretum that is open to the public free of charge during daylight hours. This expansive green space offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of plant life in a serene and beautiful setting.